Turkey Trot raised $8K for food pantry

The sixth annual Wachusett Fitness Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving morning 2009 raised a record $8,000 for the Wachusett Food Pantry, for a total over four years of some $20,000.

The traditional Thanksgiving Day road race attracted 631 registered participants from 20 states, and 572 finishers, or 100 more than in 2008. Brian McGahie, 16, of Boylston, was the overall winner, with a time of 17:23. Brian’s sister, Kaitlin McGahee, 14, was the top female finisher.

“This has definitely become a fun family tradition for the entire community, and a great way to provide support for the less fortunate,” said Paul F. Latino of Holden, who owns Wachusett Fitness.

Latino also thanked Rick and Beverly Mansfield of Miles Funeral Home on Main Street, which served as the start and end of the race.

The Wachusett Food Pantry provides emergency food assistance to any resident of Holden, Paxton, Princeton, Rutland and Sterling in a caring and confidential manner as a part of the Worcester County Hunger-Free Network. Monthly food distributions are made from the First Baptist Church on Main Street in Holden.

Wachusett Fitness, at 1097 Main St., offers personal training for individuals and small groups, studio cycling, group strength programs, as well as independent memberships and non-member packages.